The 1992 critically acclaimed comedy is scheduled to grace television screens this evening for the ultimate feel-good viewing experience – and i acting royalty.
The filmthat spawned a sequel and musical adaptation, Sister Act, remains a fan favourite, and with good reason. At the centre of the story is Hollywood icon Whoopi Goldberg, starring alongside none other than the late Dame Maggie Smith – both playing the roles of nuns.
Upon its release, it shot to fame, becoming a box-office smash and one of the most financially successful films of the early 1990s. Its success extended beyond cinemas; it was, in fact, the most rented film of 1993 in the United States.
One fan of the film claims: “Sister Act is an amazing classic. It has an amazing storyline. In the movie itself, there is great humour and a great storyline that are very well woven and balanced with a serious storyline. There are very charming characters as well as good music and good settings,” as written in a Rotten Tomatoes review.
Goldberg’s character is Deloris Van Cartier, a talented singer who regularly performs in a club until her romance with a mobster is abruptly ended when he refuses to leave his wife for her. Following their breakup, she witnesses a murder ordered by her lover, and the police advise her to go into hiding for a while.
She believes there’s no safer refuge than a convent, where she adopts an entirely fresh identity as Sister Mary whilst posing as a nun. Whilst serving at the convent, she brings her characteristic flair to the establishment, boosting morale and transforming their lacklustre choir into a dynamic group of gifted performers.
However, their phenomenal success in attracting greater crowds to the church could jeopardise her attempts to stay concealed. Should word of the remarkable choir under her direction reach the mobster, her carefully maintained disguise could be entirely exposed.
One viewer said: “Simply a wonderful, heartwarming experience. Great performances from this wonderful team. A coherent, well-structured story, beautifully directed too.”
Another person wrote: “Nostalgic and comforting, Sister Act manages to be a strong and at the same time delicate comedy.”
Contributing to the acclaim, especially regarding the film’s ensemble, a viewer said: “One of the feel-good, nostalgic movies from my younger days that made its way into my heart forever.”
They added: “The entire cast is perfect. Whoopi Goldberg makes her character Deloris believable, and you can’t help but root for her. She’s truly hilarious and unique. Maggie Smith is marvellous as the Mother Superior, and the other supporting players (that include Kathy Najimy and Mary Wickes) are a treat.”
The blockbuster also featured a popular soundtrack, which included all the musical numbers performed live by the actors in the film. It made its debut on the charts and earned a Gold certification due to its modern take on soulful tunes.
For a relaxing night in, you can watch the classic 90s film Sister Act on Film4 at 4:45pm this evening, Saturday 29. Alternatively, the film is available for streaming on Disney+.
